From Moshood KARIM
Media Watch Group International, a reputable organization known for its commitment to promoting excellence in journalism and related fields, on Thursday presented a highly coveted award of excellence to Comrade Festus Alenkhe, the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Edo State Chapter.
The award is in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the development of human capital and other laudable achievements under his watch.
According to Mr. Philips Imafidon, who led the team that presented the award, the management of Media Watch Group International has closely monitored Comrade Festus Alenkhe’s administration and concluded that he has made remarkable strides in transforming the Press center in Benin City.
Specifically, the media group was impressed by the significant infrastructural improvements he has brought about, which have created a more conducive environment for journalists to carry out their duties effectively.
“We don’t just give award anyhow, to disgruntled elements but people who are deserving.
“People who are have contributed positively to the development of their community. We are presenting this award today because he has done so well in transforming the Press centre of the Nigeria Union of Journalists in Benin. He is a promise keeper.
“During his campaign for the office of the Chairman of the Union, he told us if he is voted into power, within 24 hours, there will be uninterrupted internet for journalists to work at the Press centre.
“Today, we are witnessing the reality. All journalists at the Press centre have been transformed. There is total sanity compare to the past administration. Security is guaranteed at the Press Centre. It is on this strength that we said, he deserved to be honoured.” Imafidon stressed.
In his address, Comrade Festus Alenkhe expressed gratitude to the media group and promised to continue to contribute his quota to the development of journalism in Nigeria and beyond.
He revealed that, he is yet to hit the developmental target sets for the NUJ and promised to continue to explore more ways to uplift the Union and leverage on the available resources to improve human capital development.
Alenkhe said: “I am not there yet. I am only dribbling now, by the time I get to the goalpost, it will be a hat-trick.
“We have alots of programmes lined-up for the benefit of journalists in the State. We have secured a training programme for journalists in the State of which about 30 journalists have been accredited.
“We have partnered with a new generation bank to provide loan facility for them. The first and second batch have been done and I am happy that those journalists that took the loan have paid back. We are now at the third stage which will commence soon.
“The Union has also partnered with the Edo State government to provide health insurance scheme for journalists and I am happy majority have keyed into it.
“For us at the NUJ, we will continue to maintain the infrastructure that we have on ground for now before the end of the quarter, we will concentrate on human capital development.”
“He charged all journalists in the State to ensure balance and accurate reportage as the September 2024 Edo gubernatorial election draws near. He said they should play by the rules and adhere to the ethics of journalism.
“I want to appeal to the journalists in Edo State, try as much as possible to play by the rules, balance your stories. Don’t allow any politician to use you. They can use you now and throw you out later. As you follow them, ‘follow and shine your eyes properly’, If they give you strong content to publish, look at it before publishing, ask yourself whether it will be injurious to the person it is directed to or not.
“As a professional, get to investigate the information you are given before publishing.”
The award of excellence is a testament to Comrade Festus Alenkhe’s tireless efforts and commitment to advancing the journalism profession in Edo State. It is also a clear indication of his outstanding leadership qualities and his ability to inspire others to follow in his footsteps. As such, Media Watch Group International hopes that this recognition will serve as a source of motivation for other journalists and media practitioners to strive towards excellence in their respective fields.
